A ball valve is a quarter-turn shutoff valve used to control the flow of refrigerant (or other fluids) in HVAC and refrigeration systems. Inside the valve is a hollow, perforated ball. When the handle is turned 90 degrees, the hole inside the ball either aligns with the pipe (allowing flow) or blocks it (stopping flow).
In refrigeration systems, ball valves are used to isolate sections of piping for servicing, repairs, or system charging.
Why Is a Ball Valve Used in Refrigeration?
1. System Isolation
Allows technicians to shut off refrigerant flow to a specific section without recovering the entire system charge.
2. Maintenance & Repairs
Makes it easier to replace components like evaporators, condensers, or compressors.
3. Charging & Service Ports
Some ball valves include access ports for gauges or charging connections.
4. Emergency Shutoff
Quick quarter-turn operation allows fast shutdown in case of leaks or service needs.
Common Refrigeration Ball Valve Sizes
The sizes refer to the pipe or tubing diameter the valve connects to:
-
1/4" Ball Valve
Commonly used on small liquid lines in mini split systems. -
3/8" Ball Valve
Often used on larger liquid lines or smaller suction lines. -
1/2" Ball Valve
Used on medium-capacity systems or suction lines. -
5/8" Ball Valve
Typically found on larger suction lines in higher-capacity mini split or light commercial systems.
Where Are They Installed?
Ball valves may be installed:
-
On liquid lines
-
On suction lines
-
Near condensers
-
At branch connections
-
Before service access points
They are typically brazed into copper refrigerant piping.
Important Installation Notes
-
Must be rated for refrigerant type (R-410A, R-32, etc.)
-
Must handle high system pressures
-
Installed using proper brazing procedures with nitrogen purge
-
Should not restrict refrigerant flow
